United Way of Lebanon County banking on '21 for 21 by 21'

With less than two weeks to go until a scheduled victory celebration, the United Way of Lebanon County needs a big rally to reach its $1.85 million goal.

The 2012 campaign is about $200,000 behind last year at the same time, resource development director Julie Osborne said Friday.

"The number changes every day," Osborne said. "The good news is we've done fantastic between (the Dec. 13 report meeting) and now."

On Dec. 13, 2012, campaign chairman Glenn Rambler announced that $1.12 million had been collected.

Because virtually all business campaigns have concluded and turned in their pledges, Osborne isn't sure how the $200,000 gap will be closed.

She's hoping a recently launched "21 for 21 by 21" social media campaign will be a success.

That effort hopes to motivate people to donate $21 for the United Way's 21 member agencies by Jan. 21.

"Make a pledge of $21 or more in support of our 21 agencies and help us provide funding for food, clothing, literacy, improved health, counseling, life skills and more to those in Lebanon County who need your help," a flier says.

The last-ditch push hopes United Way supporters will spread the word to their contacts by posting on Facebook, Twitter and other social media websites and send texts and emails urging friends to pitch in by donating online at www.UnitedWayLebCo.org.

The victory celebration is scheduled at the Salvation Army on Guilford Street in Lebanon at 4:30 p.m. Jan. 24.

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